Some people post pictures and videos that are not necessarily reality, but when youth see things on social media like substance use or sexual behavior, they can feel like it’s normalized and then engage in those things, too. How does social media exacerbate things like anxiety, depression and exploitation? It can perpetuate eating disorder behavior, substance use and depression. It can lead to online harassment, cyberbullying and anxiety. Some of the positives are it serves as a platform for kids to have a sense of community, to connect with friends and family, and to learn about things they’re curious about.Īt the same time, some studies show engagement with social media can lead to exploitation of youth. Like anything, there are positives and downsides. How bad is social media for youth mental health? Evans, On the Pulse shares her expertise and provides helpful resources for families and caregivers. Yolanda Evans, co-chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine and a principal investigator in the Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development at Seattle Children’s, sees the effects of social media firsthand.
How does social media affect mental health? Are the concerns valid? And if so, what can parents and other adults do to protect kids (and themselves)?ĭr. In January, Seattle Public Schools filed a lawsuit against Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube for their roles in “creating a youth mental health crisis.” In February, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing about the issue, with some senators demanding social media companies be held accountable.
There is growing concern about social media’s effects on mental health, especially for kids.
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